Tony's Ice Cream is a ice cream shop in Gastonia, NC. Open: Mon–Thu 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Fri–Sat 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Sun 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM. Phone: (704) 867-7085. Average rating is 4.6 stars from 3,916 reviews. Website: http://www.tonysicecream.com/.
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Tony's Ice Cream shop exterior at night with open sign.
4.6 3,916 reviews Today 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Gastonia's Beloved Ice Cream Landmark Since Forever

Four generations of locals have lined up on Franklin Blvd for scoops, hot dogs, and pure nostalgia.

About Us

Exterior view of Tony's Ice Cream shop on a sunny day.
Exterior view of Tony's Ice Cream shop on a sunny day.

Some places earn their reputation one scoop at a time, and Tony's Ice Cream has been doing exactly that on East Franklin Boulevard for decades. With over 3,900 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this isn't just a dessert stop, it's a Gastonia institution that parents bring their kids to because their parents brought them here first.

The menu surprises first-timers. Yes, the ice cream is the headliner, creamy, generous, and served the way it should be. But regulars will tell you the hot dog is non-negotiable. Something about the combination of a proper chili dog and a massive soft-serve cone on a warm Carolina afternoon hits different than anywhere else in the "Gashouse."

People drive out of their way to get here. That detail matters. When someone is just "passing through" and still pulls off the road because they have to show their kid this place, that's not habit, that's love. Tony's earns that kind of loyalty every single day.

What We Offer

The ice cream menu is the main event: hand-scooped flavors, soft-serve cones, sundaes, and specialty creations that keep the line moving and the smiles coming. Portions are honest, prices are fair, and nothing feels rushed.

Beyond dessert, Tony's lunch menu holds its own. The hot dogs have a devoted following for good reason, and the food side of the operation runs with the same care as the ice cream counter. It's the kind of spot where you can grab a real meal and finish it with something sweet without driving anywhere else.

Whether you're stopping in for a quick single scoop or settling in with the whole family for a full lunch-and-dessert outing, 604 E Franklin Blvd delivers every time. Cash or card, solo or crew, first visit or fiftieth, the experience holds up.

Gallery

Take a look at our space and what we have to offer

What Our Customers Say

Don't just take our word for it - hear from our satisfied customers

Click to Rate & Review This Business ✍️
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2 months ago
"You can not go wrong with this Gastonia Staple business! Have been coming here for 20+ years. Do not live nearby anymore but was passing through the “Gashouse” and had to take my kid to check out the milkshakes! Let’s just say she Approves! 💯 thank you!"
— J-Kube
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2 months ago
"February 2026...As in every year I can recall for decades, today Tony's Ice Cream delivered great service and fantastic food. The photos will tell the story better than I can. You'll see a massive hot fudge cake, some fresh hot fries, and a Lemon milkshake. Fries ...fresh, hot, crisp shoestring fries, perfect for swiping thru your ice cream... Shake... My very first in this flavor. I usually go for the butter pecan, or black walnut. Why not try something new, I said... And, just like when I tried the grape, its a great choice. Creamy, light lemon flavor hits just right. Fudge Cake...Good cake . I had one made with traditional vanilla, and one eirh peanut butter ripple. Both were sandwiched between devils food layers, covered in thick hot fudge, and topped with whipped cream and a cherry. I can't see how these can get better. Ive felt the same for 50+ years, now. Someday they may disappoint...not today."
— D 28092
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
6 months ago
"Due to many recommendations I went to Tony’s for lunch last Saturday. For this visit I stuck to food (ice cream next visit) : - people had told me that the hot dog is the thing to get. There actually is quite a big menu but I stuck with the hot dog. Added onion rings for side - the girl at the counter gave a wink and “good choice” for that … - overall it was far better than expected. Yes - hot dog was good. Some for the sweet and crispy onion rings. It was a good choice ! - loved the old school vibe. Looks like it’s rhe same since the 60s. And of course some local characters enjoying lunch as well - highly recommend based on this visit. - ice cream review coming soon."
— Greg Mazza
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 months ago
"Tony's is an old fashioned, old flavored ice cream shop. The very best milkshakes, cones, and cups. Also, the best hotdogs and hamburgers with all the fixings high quality. Fries are always hot and fresh. Tony's is worth a trip even of you are coming from out off town. It's been there for many decades because they keep the same quality product."
— Bob Burnette
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3 months ago
"Best place around for a milkshake! It's a tradition in my family that anytime we go to Gastonia, we have to stop by for a milkshake. All are good but my favorite is Grape. It's delicious"
— Danielle Mancuso

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Tony's Ice Cream located?

Tony's Ice Cream is at 604 E Franklin Blvd, Gastonia, NC 28054. It's a well-known spot on Franklin Boulevard and easy to find if you're coming through the Gastonia area.

Do they serve food beyond ice cream?

Yes! Tony's is famous for its hot dogs, and regulars say the hot dog is absolutely the thing to order for lunch. The food menu is a genuine draw alongside the ice cream, making it a full meal destination.

What flavors of ice cream do they offer?

Tony's carries a rotating selection of hand-scooped flavors plus soft-serve options. The best way to see what's available is to visit or check their website at tonysicecream.com for current offerings.

Is Tony's Ice Cream good for families with kids?

Absolutely. Tony's has been a family destination for generations in Gastonia. Many current customers were first brought there as children by their own parents. It's a friendly, casual environment perfect for all ages.

How long has Tony's Ice Cream been open?

Tony's has been a Gastonia staple for well over 20 years, with many loyal customers reporting decades of visits. It's one of those rare local businesses that has genuinely stood the test of time.

Is it worth stopping at Tony's if I'm just passing through Gastonia?

Locals say yes, emphatically. Multiple reviews describe people going out of their way or pulling off the road specifically for Tony's even when they no longer live nearby. If you're on Franklin Blvd, it's worth the stop.

What is the best time to visit Tony's Ice Cream?

Tony's is popular year-round, with reviewers noting great service in every season including winter. Lunch hours tend to be busy on weekends, so arriving a bit early or on a weekday can mean a shorter wait.

Hours of Operation

Open Now · Closes at 9:00 PM
Monday Today 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
92° Clear Gastonia
Mon 93° 70°
Tue 98° 72°
Wed 98° 71°
Thu 101° 71°
Fri 100° 72°
Sat 87° 71°
Sun 92° 71°

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